Assessing user acceptance towards automated and conventional sink use for hand decontamination using the technology acceptance model

Hand hygiene (HH) prevents harmful contaminants spreading in settings including domestic, healthcare and food handling. Strategies to improve HH range from behavioural techniques through to automated sinks that ensure hand surface cleaning. This study aimed to assess user experience and acceptance towards a new automated sink, compared to a normal sink. An adapted version of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) assessed each mode of handwashing. A within-subjects design enabled N=46 participants to evaluate both sinks. Perceived Ease of Use and Satisfaction of Use were significantly lower for the automated sink, compared to the conventional sink (p<. 005). Across the remaining TAM factors there was no significant difference. Participants suggested design features including jet strength, water temperature, and device affordance may improve HH technology. We provide recommendations for future HH technology development to contribute a positive user experience, relevant to technology developers, ergonomists and those involved in HH across all sectors.